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09 October, 2012

Essence eyeshadow inventory and swatches!

It was over a year ago I first discovered Essence cosmetics and initially went completely gaga over their uber affordable rainbow of nail polish shades. Of course I also tried a few eyeshadow pans because they were so cheap too - gotta love a good bargain! I was surprised by their quality and colour selection and over the past year or so my collection has grown more than a little. Time to do an updated inventory then! Here are my eyeshadow pans, and just because I like sorting things, they're sorted by finish.

Shimmer Effect
I think the reference to shimmer's a bit misleading - for me anyway because it automatically conjures up visions of tons of shimmer or frost. Yes these shadows are shimmery and have a glowing finish but I think they're are best described as a satin, as they appear rather silky when swatched. Pigmentation is medium but quite buildable and there are quite a few shades in the range with this soft finish.These shadows are perfect for daytime looks.

Shades as shown left to right and swatched in the same order:

58 Cappucino, please - Mushroom beige

54 Yes eye can! - Silvery blue

46 Taupe of the pops - Khaki taupe

16 Go glam - Pink toned lilac

32 Jazzed up - Shimmery mint green

Metallic Effect
The Metallic Effect eyeshadows are incredibly pigmented and do have a definite metallic sheen to them. One swipe and you get a lovely depth of colour and shine on your lids. I use these as crease shades and prefer to use them for evening eyes.

Left to right and swatched in the same order:

14 Irresistible - Gunmetal grey

35 Party all night - Warm golden taupe

And the rest...

Matte Effect
I only have one of these so I can't generalise. The pigmentation is soft and a little on the sheer side and the finish isn't 100% matte as I can detect a slight satiny sheen. Holographic
I don't know about holographic but this has a gorgeous, duochrome look on the skin and has great coverage. Stunning and very glam for an evening eye! I'd buy more of these if I see thembecause I love the multidimensional iridescent look.Sparkling Effect
Sheer and powdery with a hint of sparkle. Unfortunately mine is extremely crumbly too.

Left to right and swatched in the same order:

21 Colour splash (matte effect) - soft lime green

43 Mystic lemon (holographic effect) - iridescent golden yellow

02 Dance all night - Ivory with subtle sparkle

Australian readers can buy Essence cosmetics at Target and Priceline stores nationally.

You know, I actually haven't tried their eyeliner, except for a glittery liquid liner, although I do love their lipliner pencils cos they're so soft! I can totally see you in those E/S shades Saumya :)

Pretties! I didn't have too many essence shadows, but I was just sent a bag from them filled with beautiful goodies so I may have just as many as you now! I love their holographic shades, so unique in this market.

I own a bunch of these too. I usually buy them when they go on sale before being discontinued, and that way I get many colors I wouldn't normally buy, to experiment because they are very cheap then. Love their quality and shade selection

I swatched some of these and was pleasantly surprised by how shimmery they were - in a good way! I think this brand is the perfect introductory makeup - wearable shades, good quality for great value. Fun for us as well though, because it's tempting to buy the entire rack due to affordability!